Why Blog?

I have been thinking a lot about blogging. Not actually blogging mind you, just thinking about it.

When I started blogging - it felt like such a bold move. Like I was acting on a dare issued on the playground.

Footfalls of Spring :: Portland Cherry Blossoms

"I heard the footfall of the flower spring." - Sappho

In Greek Mythology, Persephone the maiden of spring ushered in the renewal of the Earth with her footsteps.  

Spring Flowers in Season for Easter

As the trees begin to bloom and the tulips sprout free from the slumbering soil, I am filled with a sense of hope. When the world wakes up from winter's embrace, I can't help but celebrate the return of the capricious muse that is spring.

Best places to visit when backpacking Europe

After three treks to Europe, I came home with more than just colorful stamps in my passport.

I learned to appreciation the European lifestyle, the war torn battleground of my grandparent's generation, and the opulent art that defies time and endures. In short, I can home with lessons, I came home with knowledge and there is beauty in something freely given and gladly taken.  

My personal list of favorite European destinations, is just that: personal. This list leaves out Barcelona, London, Venice, Bath, Avignon, Seville (and so many more). Places that swell my heart in memory, but felt like well worn linen.  Too popular to mention here (and I didn't have any good pictures and these vain things matter to me). Fortunately for us, better writers have already serenaded these places, so they do not run the risk of fading into obscurity in my lifetime.  

All that considered, below are my honest recommendations for people looking for a memorable and diverse backpacking trip in Europe.

Riomaggiore, Italy
A calm and vibrant coastal town that hugs the hillside and provides spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. This romantic villa is the perfect place for a romantic stroll, the Via dell'Amore (the way of love), is path that provides unmatched views of the Sea. $$$

Back to Reality :: The Honeymoon is Over

Sharing our honeymoon memories on the blog, has given me a chance to relive the experience.  It kept the journey alive for me and it is with a heavy heart that I wrap things up. The honeymoon is over, as they say.

It is funny the things that stick in your memory.

Remembering Judy Hankins Aley

My mother-in-law, Judy Aley died of complications following a routine surgery on Monday, January 28, 2013. She was a gentle, soft spoken soul, who raised six remarkable children.

The Magical Rock Close :: Blarney, Ireland

Admittance to Blarney Castle grants you entrance to not only the Castle, but to numerous gardens, the famous Blarney Stone, an exterior view of the “modern” estate, and the magical Rock Close.

The Rock Close was by far my favorite attraction.

I really had no idea what a Rock Close was and I was pleasantly surprised by the treasures awaiting us there.

Blarney Castle :: Kissing the Blarney Stone

The Blarney Stone is a block of bluestone that lives in Blarney Castle and is world-renowned for it’s alleged magical properties. Legend states that those brave enough to kiss the Blarney Stone are blessed with the “gift of the gab”. Gab is a trait marked by one’s eloquence with words, wit and ability to use humor to win people over.  

Who wouldn’t want that?

Dingle, Ireland

The wee town of Dingle is located on the Southwestern coast of Ireland. It is a quaint little fishing village located on the picturesque Dingle Peninsula.

Dublin, Ireland

I loved Dublin. 

It was, alas, a quick trip. We spent two nights in a Townhouse hostel that was once probably someone's grand home. Today it is a three star hostel whose floorboards sink underneath musty carpets and features communal bathrooms designed to rival any truck stop. 

It wasn't the Ritz, but it was clean with an excellent location. And if I am being completely honest, I am attracted to the dilapidated estates of yore. While the upstairs remodel was a hatchet job, the downstairs was worn, but bright and was once clearly grand. 

The buildings aristocratic face was still in place, with it's tall ceilings, crown molding and curved staircases. It was a bit like visiting the dinosaur exhibit at the Museum.  You marvel at the bones and imagine what it used to be back in the glory days.

The Tropical Ravine :: Belfast, Northern Ireland

On our last day in Belfast, I left Rob slumbering at the hostel to explore The Queen's University Botanical Gardens. It was a peaceful Sunday morning and I had the grounds almost entirely to myself. It was a pleasant day and after spending the better part of an hour poking around the gardens, I decided to make the trek back to hostel.

As I neared the exit, a mysterious building caught my eye. At first glance, it appeared to be an abandoned warehouse covered in Ivy. The brick building was swathed in green and the few windows I could see were obscured with vines.